The trustees of the Multiple Sclerosis Society have recommended the
closure of its holiday homes in Exmouth and Worthing. The final decision
will be taken in July, after a period of staff consultation.

Mike O'Donovan, the Society's chief executive, said today (Friday, 17
May 2002) that three factors had led to the recommendation.

"The first is that the homes are operating well below capacity as the
choice of other accessible destinations widens".

"The second is the Society's commitment to focus resources on high standards
of care for people very severely affected by MS. We have three purpose-built
respite care centres and we are also looking to develop home respite care,"
he said.

"The third factor is the impact of the Government's new National Standards
for care homes. To comply with the standards we would have to spend £560,000
in the next year alone to upgrade the facilities and we would have to reduce
the number of beds by half.

"That would mean that the subsidy we provide for guests would treble,
to an average figure approaching £1,000 per bed per week".

Mr O'Donovan said the recommendation had been made with great regret
after a very thorough review. "We realise it could be upsetting for guests,
especially those who have used the homes for a number of years. However,
if the recommendation to close is confirmed we shall do everything we can
to help people find acceptable alternatives. We shall set up an enquiry
line and introduce a directory of respite care centres and holiday homes.

"We also regret very much what this will mean for staff, volunteers
and supporters, whose commitment to the homes has been so strong. We shall
have plans in place to help staff find suitable alternative employment."

Notes to Editors:
Orcombeleigh Care Hotel, Douglas Avenue, Exmouth, Devon, was opened
in 1973 and currently takes up to 19 guests. Kenninghall MS Care Hotel,
Shakespeare Road, Worthing, West Sussex, was opened in 1980 and currently
takes up to 18 guests.